Description
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful, cheesy snack that everyone will adore. Perfect for parties, as a healthy side dish, or just a quick bite, these crispy veggie balls combine the nutritious goodness of broccoli with gooey cheddar and Parmesan cheese. They are baked instead of fried, making them a lighter option without compromising on flavor. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara or ranch for an irresistible treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Cooking spray (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli until tender-crisp (about 3-5 minutes), then cool and chop finely.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional minute while watching closely.
- Serve warm with your choice of dips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Chill the mixture for about 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape. Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables or using different cheeses.